Getting your ring size right is crucial for comfort and keeping that precious piece of jewelry on your finger where it belongs. Too tight and it’s uncomfortable. Too loose, and you risk losing it!
This guide walks you through measuring your ring size at home and understanding a ring size chart (inch and millimeter versions included!). We’ll also cover tips for finding the perfect fit.
Keep in mind that things like the time of day, temperature, and even finger swelling can affect how a ring fits. We’ll help you navigate those factors, too.
How to measure your ring size at home
If you don’t have access to a jeweler’s ring sizer, there are a few ways you can measure your ring size at home.
DIY method: String or paper strip
Here’s how:
- Wrap a string or thin strip of paper snugly around the base of the finger you want to measure.
- Mark the spot where the string or paper overlaps and measure its length with a ruler.
Keep in mind:
- Measure when your hands are at room temperature.
- Make sure the ring you choose will be able to slide over your knuckle.
Measure an existing ring
If you have a ring that fits comfortably, you can measure it to determine your ring size. Here’s how:
- Measure the inside diameter of the ring.
- Use a ruler to measure the diameter in millimeters, or use a printable ring sizer.
Keep in mind: Make sure the ring is round and hasn’t been bent out of shape.
Printable ring sizer
You can also download and print a ring sizer chart. Then, just place a ring on the circles until you find a match.
Be sure to print the chart at the correct scale so your results are accurate.
Understanding Ring Size Charts
Ring size charts are the handiest way to figure out your U.S. ring size and how it translates to international measurements. Here’s what you need to know.
U.S. Ring Size Chart
U.S. ring sizes are based on the inner diameter and circumference of the ring, usually measured in inches or millimeters.
Women’s ring sizes typically range from 3 to 9, with size 6 being the most common. Men’s ring sizes usually range from 6 to 13, with size 9 being the most popular.
International Ring Size Conversions
Ring sizes vary from country to country, so you may need to use a ring size conversion chart to translate a U.S. size to a U.K. or European size.
Using a conversion chart is especially important if you’re buying rings from an overseas retailer or giving a ring to someone who lives in another country.
What affects ring fit?
Getting an accurate ring size isn’t always easy. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Time of Day and Temperature: Your fingers change size depending on the temperature or time of day. Measure your finger in the evening, when it’s likely to be at its largest.
- Band Width: Wider rings fit more snugly. You may need to go up half a size if you’re selecting a wide band.
- Finger Shape and Knuckle Size: If your knuckle is much bigger than the base of your finger, choose a ring that fits over your knuckle. You may need to resize the ring to keep it from spinning around on your finger.
Tips for finding the perfect fit
Finding the right ring size can be tricky. Here are a few tips to help:
- Measure more than once: Take a few measurements at different times of day to make sure you get an accurate reading. Measure on your dominant hand, as fingers on that hand tend to be slightly larger.
- When in doubt, size up: If your measurement falls between two sizes, it’s usually better to go with the larger size. A slightly looser ring is more comfortable than one that’s too tight.
- Think about resizing: Before you buy, find out if the jeweler offers resizing services. Keep in mind that some ring styles, like eternity bands, are difficult or impossible to resize.
The Bottom Line
Whether you use a piece of string, an existing ring, or a printable ring sizer, you now have some solid ways to find your ring size from home.
Remember to consider the temperature, the width of the ring band, and the size of your knuckles to ensure a comfortable fit.
And when in doubt, nothing beats a visit to a professional jeweler. They can give you an accurate measurement and offer personalized advice to help you find the perfect ring.